Firm to produce youth-wrestling show

A Calgary hi-tech company is going to the mat with a major Hollywood
player.

Digital Artisans Guild Inc. (DAG) announced yesterday that it has signed a
two-year contract for its matrats.com to be marketed and distributed by
Mandalay Sports Entertainment and E-Media.

The series is an interactive teen-oriented wrestling and music show
destined for both the Internet and traditional TV.

"The important thing is we have followed the traditional TV model," says
Graham Owen, DAG's vice-president and COO of the company's business strategy.

"It's not just another dot-com."

Two episodes have already been produced in DAG's new 6,800-sq.-ft. office
and studio complex.

As yet, there's no air date set for the show.

The series -- which will feature 18 wrestlers from around the world,
including Ted Hart, 19-year-old nephew of Bret and Owen -- is ramping up to
produce 100 episodes in the next two years. Each episode is expected to
generate about $350,000 US in gross revenues for domestic and international
licence fees.

Poll Question

What do you think of DAG's proposed teen-oriented wrestling show?

Total Votes for this Question: 818

39% voted for It's a dumb idea.
16% voted for I'll check it out.
12% voted for Where do I sign up?
33% voted for Whatever.

The cost of each episode is estimated at $175,000.

On hand for the announcement were Mark ladanza, director of technology at
Mandalay E-Media, and ex-Wonder Years actor Jason Hervey, who's a principal in
Mandalay Sports Action Entertainment. He's also the executive producer of WCW
Superstar series.

"We were truly attracted to the quality of the show and I love pro
wrestling ," Hervey says.

Both sides hailed the deal as a coup for Calgary that will generate
interest for the city from other international players in the sports and
entertainment industries.